Congratulations on your decision to add a new feline member to your family! Cats get a bad rap for being aloof and disagreeable, but they’re actually affectionate little animals who make wonderful companions. While welcoming a cat into your home is an exciting experience, it’s also one that calls for preparation. Felines are especially sensitive to new surroundings, so you want to make sure your new friend has as smooth a transition as possible.
Here are some tips on preparing for a cat adoption!

There’s a cost associated with taking care of a feline companion, and that amount depends on your cat’s needs and your own lifestyle. But expect to spend at least $405 for the first year and roughly $340 for each subsequent year. You’ll be able to save more if you adopt your furry friend from a shelter, as adoption fees typically cover initial vaccines, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. 

Other costs that come with having a cat include veterinary care, food, treats, flea and tick prevention, litter, toys, and cat sitting. If you’re inclined to splurge on your four-legged pal, you can also add professional grooming, birthday cakes, and a pet camera to the list.

It’s important to have all the essentials ready before your cat arrives so that they can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need: 

Cats are territorial critters and being in a strange place can make them feel uneasy. A safe room will provide them with the security they need as they adjust to their new home over the next few days or weeks. It can be any size, but it should have a door and ceiling. It needs to be private too—no kids, other pets, or guests allowed. Remind other human family members that the door is to remain closed at all times. 

Furnish the safe room with food, water, a litter box, a scratching post, and a bed. See to it that there aren’t any items lying around that can harm your cat. Your new friend will likely be nervous and want to get away from it all—give them places to hide by draping sheets or towels over chairs. Cardboard boxes work well too.  

Drop by the safe room frequently for short periods. During your visits, you can play or interact with your cat or just be in the same space doing something else. Make sure they have toys like mice and balls to play with when you’re not around.

Once you’ve gained your furry friend’s trust, you can let them out of the safe room and allow them to explore the rest of the house under your supervision. But before you do that, you need to make sure that your home has been cat-proofed. Here are some things to consider:

If you have other pets, do not try to introduce your new cat to them immediately upon arrival. A successful introduction will require a bit of planning and a lot of patience. Let your new addition and resident cat or dog smell each other from under the safe room door first before letting them meet face-to-face.

Being prepared when bringing a new cat home will help ensure a smooth transition for the newest member of the family!

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